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Reed-beds and Saline Lagoons
'Saline lagoons are essentially bodies of saline [salty] water that are partially separated from the adjacent sea' Current Status and Distribution The Severals are saline lagoons which are surrounded by the only significant reedbeds outside of the nature reserve. There is an urgent need for better management of these habitats as the lagoons are drying out and scrub is encroaching. They are within the SSSI but outside of the nature reserve. Importance Both are rare habitats in the UK. Saline lagoons are of international importance. 'Reedbeds are amongst the most important habitats for birds in the UK'. [Sussex Reedbeds HAP p. 3] They are also important for invertebrates with some of our rarest species depending on them. Saline lagoons are also important for invertebrates and birds, especially waders, wildfowl and seabirds which use them as feeding and roosting sites. [Sussex Saline Lagoons HAP p.3] Local Significance Field names [1672 and 1778] indicate that in the 17th and 18th centuries the land along the western boundary of the parish was very marshy, hence there may have been more areas of reedbed here at this time prior to extensive drainage schemes. The Severals are an historic feature and valued by local birdwatchers. Threats · The lagoons are being overtaken by natural succession: spread of reeds and encroaching scrub. · Drying out · Pollution by agricultural run-off · Sea level rise · Lack of appropriate management · Coastal squeeze |
Action proposed in Sussex HAPS | Action proposed in Selsey Parish |
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Identify reedbed creation opportunities for wastewater/pollution treatment. [Reedbeds HAP]Investigate novel markets for reed products and means of enlarging existing markets. [Reedbeds HAP] | Involve the community in the planting and management of new sections of reedbed in East Beach pond.Explore possible local uses for reed. |
Encourage active involvement by local groups in managing lagoon sites.[Saline Lagoons HAP] | Promote active local involvement in the practical management of the Severals in collaboration with Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve, English Nature and the landowner. |